Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

That is another day's work. I thank the Senators who contributed to the debate. Senators Heffernan, Keane, Daly and Barrett made worthy contributions. There was a degree of duplication in some of our remarks but we touched on most of what needed to be said. This is the first occasion in which time was set aside not only in this House, but also in the Dáil to discuss a plenary of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly. This was also the first time in which both a Taoiseach and a President addressed a plenary. The President hosted a wonderful reception in Áras an Uachtaráin and gave a highly significant speech. He made several interesting statements and also complimented this Chamber's ceiling and chairs. I know he made a great impression on our visitors from around the islands. The great thing about Britain and Ireland is that we have moved on to this stage. There is further work to be done but we have been co-operating in Europe for the last 40 years. There is no doubt that we have reached a new level of maturity.

Among the speakers was Darina Allen, who is a food genius. Bord Bia and Tourism Ireland also deserve our thanks. I hope we have properly thanked everyone involved. I am grateful to the Leas-Chathaoirleach for giving me the time to speak.